The FIFA World Cup is the most popular sporting event in the world. Every four years, soccer (or, football) serves as the centerpiece to a global tournament in which dozens of nations compete. The World Cup brings thousands together to root for their nation and it is as culturally significant as it is fun. The final match of the tournament consistently ranks among the most-watched television events in history. 2022’s final recorded 1.5 billion viewers across the world. In 2026, the final match will be held in NJ.
Where Is the 2026 World Cup Final Being Played?
We have known for quite some time that the World Cup was coming to New Jersey—specifically MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, which is home to the New York Giants and New York Jets. However, it was recently revealed that MetLife Stadium would host the final.
MetLife Stadium will don a different name for the 2026 World Cup Matches due to FIFA’s strict policy against corporate-sponsored stadium names (take notes, American sports leagues). For the tournament, MetLife Stadium will be referred to as “New York New Jersey Stadium.”
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East Rutherford, NJ was picked because of its close proximity to Manhattan, ample places to stay and because, seemingly, FIFA knows that New Jersey is the greatest. Including the final, the “New York New Jersey Stadium” will host eight matches total.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy and New York Mayor Eric Adams revealed the official branding for the MetLife World Cup back in May.
2026 World Cup Format
The past seven World Cups have included 32 teams, but this year, the tournament expands to include 48 teams—a significant increase.
In another first for the summer tournament, the 2026 World Cup will be held across three separate host nations: Mexico, the US and Canada. Other matches leading up to the final will be held in Los Angeles, Mexico City, Toronto, Vancouver, Philadelphia and nine more North American cities. The full match schedule can be found here.
Stay tuned for more updates on the 2026 World Cup.
About the Author/s
Peter Candia is the Food + Drink Editor at New Jersey Digest. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, Peter found a passion for writing midway through school and never looked back. He is a former line cook, server and bartender at top-rated restaurants in the tri-state area. In addition to food, Peter enjoys politics, music, sports and anything New Jersey.
